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| Corrections cuts won't dent safety |
| By argusleader.com |
| Published: 04/25/2011 |
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The recent inmate escape attempt and death of a senior corrections officer has state legislators wondering whether more resources need to be put into the Department of Corrections. The department's budget was cut by $8.4 million, or 8 percent, for fiscal year 2012 to help eliminate the state's $127 million structural deficit. The state also had to fill a hole left by $8 million in federal stimulus money that made up this year's budget. This week, the Legislature's Executive Board extended an invitation to newly appointed Corrections Secretary Denny Kaemingk to make a presentation in June. He will start managing the state prison system May 2 - a full week earlier than planned. Last week, corrections officer Ronald "R.J." Johnson, 63, of Sioux Falls was killed during a failed escape attempt. Executive Board chairman Rep. Charles Turbiville, R-Deadwood, said Kaemingk's presence was requested "in light of recent happenings," and the board looks forward to a report based on what Kaemingk's needs might be. "I want him to understand that the executive board and the Legislature are behind him 100 percent," Turbiville said. Kaemingk wouldn't say whether the department needs more resources. "I have not made that assumption yet. I need to get to work and find out what's going on first," he said. The department's fiscal year 2012 budget is $5.3 million less than the fiscal year 2009 budget. Starting in July, when the department's budget cuts take effect, corrections will lose 40 full-time positions. In his budget recommendation, Gov. Dennis Daugaard insisted the cuts won't affect security and do not include early releases. To save money, programs for prisoners will be eliminated, including some educational and counseling programs. Executive Board member Rep. Gene Abdallah, R-Sioux Falls, said he will be in the Department of Corrections' corner. Read More. |
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